The proposed bill aims to establish a licensure requirement for all private care agencies in Arkansas, ensuring consumer protection for vulnerable aging adults. It emphasizes the importance of personal care service providers in the recovery and treatment of chronic conditions for this demographic. The bill outlines that all private care agencies must undergo a uniform licensure process, in addition to certification by the Department of Human Services. Key provisions include the requirement for agencies to maintain liability insurance, conduct federal criminal background checks on employees, and ensure that staff complete a specified amount of training.

Additionally, the bill amends existing definitions and requirements for private care agencies, replacing the previous certification process with a licensing requirement from the State Board of Health. It mandates that agencies have qualified supervisors to oversee care plans and establishes an annual licensure fee of $1,000. The bill also clarifies that agencies are not required to have a registered nurse visit patients every 62 days or maintain branch offices within a specific distance from patients' homes. Overall, the legislation seeks to enhance the quality and safety of personal care services provided to aging adults in Arkansas.

Statutes affected:
Old version SB120 V2 - 3-5-2025 10:07 AM: 20-10-2302, 20-10-2304, 03-05-2025, 20-10-2303, 25-15-201
Old version SB120 V3 - 4-1-2025 10:05 AM: 20-10-2302, 20-10-2304, 04-01-2025, 20-10-2303, 25-15-201, 20-38-101
Old version SB120 Original - 1-27-2025 04:21 PM: 20-10-2302, 20-10-2304, 20-10-2303, 25-15-201
SB 120: 20-10-2302, 20-10-2304, 20-10-2303, 25-15-201